Police Sergeant Charged with Accepting Bribe for Woman’s Court Release

Polokwane – A 44-year-old police sergeant is scheduled to appear in court for allegedly facilitating the unlawful release of a foreign national who was in custody and awaiting deportation.

According to reports, the sergeant, associated with the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, was acting as a court orderly during the incident on 30 October 2023, which enabled the illegal escape.

The issue became apparent when inmates returned to the Northam Police Station after their court hearings.

During a routine check, two senior officers found that a female detainee, designated for deportation, had not been placed back in her holding cell.

Sources indicate that when questioned, the sergeant asserted he was returning to the police station but failed to report for duty the following day.

The foreign national was eventually tracked down and rearrested later in 2023.

Allegations suggest a considerable sum of money was involved in the sergeant’s actions that led to her illegal release.

The case has been referred to the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for a comprehensive investigation.

Following the conclusion of their inquiry, the findings were submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor for assessment.

After reviewing the situation, a summons was issued to the sergeant on Friday, 3 July 2026.

He is facing charges of corruption and complicity, with his first court appearance anticipated on 31 July 2026 at the Northam Magistrate’s Court.

Major-General Jan Scheepers, Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, stated: “This arrest serves as a strong reminder that any officer who breaks the law and undermines our integrity will be held accountable.”

“I commend the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for their diligent investigation that led to these charges.”

The sergeant is expected to appear in court on 31 July 2026 to face charges of corruption and complicity.